It is the smallest of the Channel Islands, this archipelago of dependencies of the British crown located off the coast of Cotentin. But unlike its neighbors Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney and Herm, Sark has the distinction of being the only feudal state in the world. In other words, unlike most countries which have a king or president at their head, Sark has been governed by a lord since 1563. Christopher Beaumont, 67 years old, former officer in the British army, is the twenty-third of the title since 2016.
For almost twenty years, the lord has only had an honorary status. In 2006, to comply with the European convention, the Sercquiais abandoned the feudal system which had remained almost unchanged for 450 years in favor of a democratic system. Certain traditions are nevertheless preserved, such as the payment of an annual rent of 1.79 pounds sterling (the same amount since 1563) to the British sovereign, direct owner of the island. The scene of acts of piracy since the 13th century, the island was ceded in 1563 by Queen Elizabeth I to Hélier de Carteret, first lord of Sark, who received in exchange the obligation to populate it.
A stargazing paradise
Tourists who visit the 5 km² island are surprised to discover a timeless atmosphere and a way of life that remains frozen in medieval times. Without a car, Sark can be explored on foot, by bike and even by horse-drawn carriage, a mode of transport still favored by the 500 inhabitants. The lordship gardens, located within the grounds of a 16th century manor house, are its main tourist attraction. Thanks to its isolation and the absence of public lighting, Sark is an ideal destination for astrotourism: in 2011, it was the first island in the world to receive the “dark sky island” label awarded by the International Dark Sky Association, the world's leading organization fighting light pollution.
To get to Sark, it is better to be patient. From Granville, you must first go to the port of Saint-Hélier, in Jersey, with the company Manche Îles Express (1h25 crossing). From there, another ferry connects with Sark (1h30) only a few days a month. Sark is also served from Guernsey (45 minutes) by the Isle of Sark company. If French citizens can visit the Channel Islands with their identity card provided they make the round trip during the day, Sark is an exception. To get there, a passport is required, regardless of the length of stay.